Local businesses support UHNM Charity’s 30th anniversary pebble gift for newborns

Babies born at Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital Stafford are receiving a special keepsake as part of UHNM Charity’s 30th anniversary, with commemorative pebbles being gifted to newborn babies across both sites to mark three decades of supporting patients, families and staff.

For families, the arrival of a baby is a major moment, and the anniversary pebble gives parents something they can keep as a reminder of the day, while also linking them to the wider story of UHNM Charity and the impact it has made over the past 30 years.

The project has been supported by local businesses who helped bring the idea to life. Steelite created the commemorative pebbles, working at pace to deliver the project in time for the start of the year. Jaqueline Stait, Brand Manager at Steelite, said: “There was an emotional connection. It was local people doing something for a local charity. What would normally take four to five months was completed in around 12 days so every baby born from 1 January could receive one.”

Pelican Packaging produced the packaging, printed with the UHNM Charity logo. Jon Harris, Managing Director at Pelican Packaging, said: “We were delighted to be involved. We’re a local company and part of the community, so to support the local hospital in this way is a great privilege.”

The Pebble programme is delivered on maternity wards, where midwives are gifting them directly to families. Jill Marquis, Inpatient Midwifery Matron, said: “It symbolises something really special for families at this time. When women come in to have their babies, it’s nice for them to have something to keep in a memory box, and they’re really grateful for them.”

Since it began, UHNM Charity has funded equipment, improved environments and supported projects that go beyond NHS provision, helping improve experiences for patients of all ages across both hospital sites. The 30-year milestone marks that impact and continued support for care across the hospitals.

UHNM Charity would like to thank everyone who has supported its work over the past three decades, with every donation helping fund projects like this and support care across Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital Stafford.